Public libraries in the 21st century: issues for concern in Nigeria

Abstract

Issues surrounding the establishment and development of public libraries in Nigeria are captured in this piece of writing. The paper particularly discusses the origin and growth of public libraries, objectives and role of public libraries in Nigeria. It further looked at public libraries in the 21^st century; problems and prospects of public libraries in the 21^st century. Specifically, the paper identified poor government support as well as poor internet facilities/technological know-how of the managers among others, as problems of public libraries in the 21^st century; the role of government such as provision of adequate funds and facilities, and the role of library managers and individuals towards effective service provision were also included. Equally, the paper presents recommendations derivable for effective and efficient public library service to include: funding by government, training and re-training of the libraries’ managers, provision of necessary facilities, strategizing for better service process among others. Documentary sources of information (books, journals, databases, government publications etc.) were used as sources for data collection.

Keywords: Library, Public Libraries, Information Technology, Century, Nigeria